Paralegal programs in Columbia, South Carolina can help you prepare for a skilled career path. Many programs include classroom instruction and supervised hands-on learning to help you build practical skills before entering the workforce.
Paralegal Schools Near Columbia, South Carolina
#1
Midlands Technical College
📍
West Columbia, SC
•13.6 miles away
Midlands Technical College is a Public, 2-year in West Columbia, SC. Graduates gain job-ready skills that align with employer demand across SC.
Central Carolina Technical College is a Public, 2-year in Sumter, SC serving about 2,388 students and accredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Graduates gain job-ready skills that align with employer demand across SC.
York Technical College is a Public, 2-year in Rock Hill, SC serving about 3,813 students and accredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Graduates gain job-ready skills that align with employer demand across SC.
Central Piedmont Community College is a Public, 2-year in Charlotte, NC serving about 13,640 students and accredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Graduates gain job-ready skills that align with employer demand across NC.
Trident Technical College is a Public, 2-year in Charleston, SC serving about 11,091 students and accredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Graduates gain job-ready skills that align with employer demand across SC.
Entry-level paralegals and legal assistants in South Carolina earn around
$35,570 per year.
The median salary is $48,640, which is 20.3% below the national median of $61,010.
Top earners make up to $67,950 per year.
South Carolina vs. National Paralegal Wages
Metric
South Carolina
National
Median salary
$48,640
$61,010
Average salary
$51,550
$66,510
25th percentile
$40,530
$48,190
75th percentile
$58,180
$78,280
90th percentile
$67,950
$98,990
South Carolina employs approximately 7,260 paralegals and legal assistants (3.2 per 1,000 workers, location quotient: 1.34).
Employment of paralegals and legal assistants is projected to grow
0.2% from 2024 to 2034,
slower than the average for all occupations.
This represents a change from 376,200 to
376,800 jobs nationwide.
About 39,300 openings are projected each year
on average over the decade, driven by workers transferring to other occupations, retiring,
or leaving the labor force.
In South Carolina, the concentration of paralegals and legal assistants is higher than the national average (location quotient: 1.34), which may reflect strong local demand for this trade.
How much do paralegals and legal assistants make in South Carolina?
The median annual salary for paralegals and legal assistants in South Carolina is $48,640. Wages range from $35,570 at the entry level (10th percentile) to $67,950 for top earners (90th percentile). This is based on the most recent Bureau of Labor Statistics data.
How many paralegal schools are near Columbia?
There are 58 Paralegal schools within commuting distance of Columbia. The closest is Midlands Technical College, approximately 13.6 miles away. Programs typically combine classroom instruction with hands-on lab work to prepare graduates for entry-level positions.
What is the job outlook for paralegals and legal assistants?
Employment of paralegals and legal assistants is projected to grow 0.2% from 2024 to 2034. About 39,300 job openings are projected each year on average, including positions from growth and replacement needs.
What does paralegal training cost near Columbia?
Annual tuition for paralegal programs near Columbia ranges from $1,956 to $13,420. Costs vary based on program length, institution type, and whether the school is public or private. Financial aid and scholarships may be available to help offset costs.
Is a paralegal in demand in South Carolina?
Demand for paralegals and legal assistants in South Carolina is higher than average compared to the rest of the country, with a location quotient of 1.34. The state employs 3.2 paralegals and legal assistants per 1,000 workers.
